Become a Social Worker in Vermont

Start your career with farmers markets, covered bridges, picturesque Lake Champlain and a state-wide network of social workers over 2,340 strong, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). In fact, all areas of social work in Vermont are expected to grow up to 15.7%. So bring your unique set of skills in counseling, therapy and education to connect clients with public or private resources across the Green Mountain State.

Information below was retrieved May 2022 and is only meant to be a high-level overview. Requirements may change, always check with the state licensing board for complete and up to date information

Sponsored Online Social Work Programs

Howard University

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Master of Social Work (MSW)

The online Master of Social Work program from Howard University School of Social Work prepares students for advanced direct or macro practice in culturally diverse communities. Two concentrations available: Direct Practice and Community, Administration, and Policy Practice. No GRE. Complete in as few as 12 months.

University of Denver

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Master of Social Work (MSW)

The University of Denver’s Online MSW Program is delivered by its top-ranked school of social work and offers two programs. Students can earn their degree in as few as 12 months for the Online Advanced-Standing MSW or 27 months for the Online MSW.

Fordham University

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Master of Social Work (MSW)

Fordham’s skills-based, online MSW program integrates advanced relevant social work competencies, preparing students to serve individuals and communities while moving the profession forward. This program includes advanced standing and traditional MSW options.

Simmons University

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Master of Social Work (MSW)

Aspiring direct practitioners can earn their MSW online from Simmons University in as few as 9 months. GRE scores are not required, and the program offers full-time, part-time, accelerated, and advanced standing tracks.

Syracuse University

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Master of Social Work (MSW)

Syracuse University’s online Master of Social Work program does not require GRE scores to apply and is focused on preparing social workers who embrace technology as an important part of the future of the profession. Traditional and Advanced Standing tracks are available.

Case Western Reserve University

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Master of Social Work (MSW)

In as few as a year and a half, you can prepare for social work leadership by earning your Master of Social Work online from Case Western Reserve University’s school of social work.

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Common Steps to Become a Vermont Social Worker

Before becoming a social worker in Vermont you must obtain an associate- or bachelor-level education in social work to become a generalist. More advanced social work requires a license depending on what career path you choose. Vermont offers two types of social work licensure options: LMSW and LICSW. There may also be additional requirements such as a background check and clinical supervision based on your goals. Below are the steps on how to obtain both licenses in Vermont. This information was retrieved from the Vermont Office of Professional Regulation in February 2022.

To become a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) in Vermont, you must:

  1. Complete an approved Master of Social Work (MSW) degree program.
  2. Submit your application to the State Office.
  3. Pass the Master’s Social Work Licensing Examination.
  4. Pass the Vermont Social Worker Jurisprudence Exam.

To become a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) in Vermont, you must:

  1. Complete an approved and accredited MSW or Doctor of Social Work (DSW) degree program.
  2. Register as a non-licensed psychotherapist.
  3. Earn 3,000 hours of supervised clinical social work over two to five years.
  4. Submit your application to the State Office.
  5. Pass the Clinical Social Work Licensing Examination.
  6. Pass the Vermont Social Worker Jurisprudence Exam.

Master of Social Work (MSW) Programs in Vermont

MSW programs in Vermont teach students advanced social work theories and practical knowledge. MSW programs include coursework on human development, social work policy, intervention and social work practice for poverty, oppression and trauma.

MSW students in Vermont also complete a social work practicum where they’re able to get real social work practice under the supervision of a licensed Vermont social worker. There are full-time, part-time and advanced-standing MSW programs available in Vermont. The following are CSWE accredited or in candidacy MSW programs in Vermont.

Online MSW Programs in Vermont

Unfortunately, there are no online MSW programs in Vermont.

Learn more about MSW Programs:

Social Work Licenses in Vermont 

Vermont has two types of licenses for social workers: Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW), and Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW). While you may practice entry-level social work under the title of “social worker” with an associate’s or bachelor’s degree, the Vermont State Office requires an MSW or DSW to practice more specialized social work. All information on LMSW and LICSW below was retrieved from the Vermont State Office of Professional Regulation.

LMSW Requirements in Vermont

Becoming an LMSW allows you to practice master-level social work as an advanced generalist social worker.

  • Education Requirement: Master or Doctorate of Social Work Degree
  • Field Requirements: None
  • Exams: ASWB Master’s Exam, Vermont Social Worker Jurisprudence Exam
  • License Renewal: 20 hours of professional development in continuing education

LICSW Requirements in Vermont

Becoming an LICSW allows you to practice clinical social work including psychotherapy and more without supervision after licensure.

  • Education Requirement: Master or Doctorate of Social Work Degree
  • Field Requirements: 4,000 hours of supervised clinical social work
  • Exams: ASWB Clinical Exam
  • License Renewal: 20 hours of professional development in continuing education

Social Work Salaries in Vermont

Vermont Social Work CareersNumber of Social Workers in VermontAnnual Mean Social Work Salary
Child, Family and School Social Workers
1,120
$52,060
Healthcare Social Workers
530
$57,020
Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers
810
$51,800
Social Workers, All Other
160
$60,200

Information on the above social work salaries in Vermont was retrieved from the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates: Vermont in May 2022.

Vermont Social Work Scholarships 

For those just starting on their path to social work, there are state-wide scholarships and programs in place to assist you. While each state has different offerings, below are some grants and loans to help you become an LMSW or LICSW in the state of Vermont.

  • Gilman Scholarship from NASW Vermont Recipients must be residents of Vermont enrolled in a CSWE-accredited BSW, MSW or DSW/PhD program at an accredited school approved for federal Title IV funding. Financial need, academic achievement and community service must be demonstrated.
  • Elizabeth J. Davis Scholarship of the VNAs (PDF, 595 KB) Established to assist students who are seeking bachelor’s or advanced degrees in health professions. Candidates must work in Vermont for a minimum of two years and a unique financial need must be demonstrated.
  • Raven Ridge Scholarship (PDF, 595 KB) This fund was created to assist academically promising incoming or current students who are passionate about and committed to pursuing a career in social work in the state of Vermont.

Vermont Social Worker Organizations

There are countless local and national associations and organizations with goals to promote, develop and protect the practice of social work and social workers. Better social work means better solutions for issues such as welfare, child welfare, elderly welfare, health care reform and other issues affecting the disadvantaged populations in Vermont and beyond.

  • National Association of Social Workers (NASW), Vermont Chapter NASW-VT connects approximately 525 of the state’s professionally trained social workers and represents their interests in the state of Vermont and advocates for positive social change.
  • Vermont Addiction Professionals’ Association (VAPA) VAPA is the association of Vermont professionals providing leadership, support and advocacy for organized improvements in the addiction field. VAPA is the voice for addictions professionals by providing collaboration, state and national advocacy, mentorship and networking.
  • Vermont Health Care Association This association is committed to advocating on behalf of residents, staff and communities that depend on Vermont’s nursing, residential care and assisted living homes as an integral component of the long term care continuum. 

FAQs

Does Vermont offer social work license reciprocity?

Vermont has two reciprocity options for out-of-state applicants. Applicants with an equivalent social work license who meet the educational prerequisites for the equivalent Vermont license and provide their official ASWB exam scores are eligible for endorsement. Applicants with a license less than Vermont’s requirements may apply the “Five-Year Rule” if they’ve practiced 1,200+ hours per year for five years and have no disciplinary actions against them. All applicants must apply and pay a $120 fee to the Vermont Office of Professional Regulation.

What are the social work continuing education (CE) requirements in Vermont?

Social workers must renew their license every two years with a $150 renewal fee. Additionally, social workers must complete 10-20 hours of continuing education; one-and-a-half hours must be in ethics. To renew, complete the online renewal form and pay the required fee.

What is the best way to look up my social work license in Vermont? 

Search for your social work license at the Vermont Office of Professional Regulation site search. The site’s options will allow you to search your name and find your license number, license status and details surrounding your professional information.

Last updated May 2022.